“We’ve had many, many discussion’s with Michael’s agent (Allan Walsh) about a multi-year deal,” said Cheveldayoff. “We both felt it was best to agree to a one-year deal at this time and continue conversations as we move forward.”

Agent Allen Walsh on the contract talks.

“We talked about a lot of different concepts and spent a lot of time together, Chevy and I,” said Walsh. “We talked about a two-year deal, a three-year deal, a four-year deal and a five-year deal. We spent most of our time talking about a one-year deal and a five-year deal. That’s what the last week of our discussions focused on. All of our discussions were professional and never were there any harsh words or animosity in any way.

“We can talk but we can’t sign a new deal until January,” said Walsh. “Our sole focus is to get something done long-term in Winnipeg. The goal is to get a long-term deal. Michael’s role this year should increase and he has the opportunity to solidify himself as part of the core.”